One of the most famous submachine guns in the world, the Thompson rates as one of the truly signature American weapons. While advancements in manufacturing techniques and materials would allow later designs to match or exceed the Thompson's performance, none of them have managed to do the job with the same level of style and craftsmanship. The Thompson, a product of old-school hand craftsmanship, is virtually synonymous with the Roaring 20s and the Great Depression, being found on both sides of the law during the "gangland" era of American history, and also serving on all Allied fronts of World War II, where it stood tall among its more cost-effective stamped steel substitutes. The records in Herigstad's "Colt Thompson Submachine Gun" (page 94) show this 1921 as having been shipped as one of two shipped to the Nelson Hardware Company of Roanoke, Virginia on December 5th, 1921, for delivery to the Roanoke Police Department. Later, this Thompson would be reported in the inventory of the Law Enforcement Equipment Company in 1972, J. Curtis Earl in 1973, and Leo D. Ottoni Junior in 1998. Blade front sight and folding Lyman rear sights, standard 1921 nomenclature and markings on the receiver, with the matching numbered trigger housing fitted with knurled control surfaces and proper "AUTOMATIC"/"SEMI-AUTOMATIC" and "FIRE"/"SAFE" switch configuration. Internals are proper 1921 pattern, with "S" marked Blish Lock mechanism, heavyweight recoil spring, and spring steel oiler. With dual pistol grips and a quick detach buttstock with a small "anchor" stamp on the front. Included with the lot is one stick magazine.

Very fine, with 70% plus original high polish blue finish, showing scattered light scratches, bright edge wear, and mild spotting and handling marks. The replacement barrel witness mark does not fully align with the receiver, and the front sight shows more of a gray patina and a replacement pin. The furniture is fine, with a number of scuffs and scratches concentrated on the buttstock and mild handling marks overall. Mechanically excellent. NOTE: This weapon is a National Firearms Act (NFA), fully transferable Class 3, which is registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, (BATFE) that is classified as a "Curios or Relic" as defined in 27 CFR, 478.11. These weapons are still subject to the provisions of 18 U.S.C. Chapter 44 and 27 CFR part 479.